Our philosophy "Skin on skin directly after birth"

For over ten years, bonding has been practised at Bethesda Hospital after every birth - including caesarean sections - and continues throughout the duration of the stay.

The close contact is a natural process that begins during pregnancy and promotes a strong feeling of love and togetherness. Through skin contact, body heat and constant touch, the hormone oxytocin is released, which is also known as the love or bonding hormone. It has a calming and relaxing effect on both mother and child so that both recover more quickly from the stress of the birth. Further advantages are that the children remain calmer and the mothers suffer less from the "baby blues".

Mental serenity thanks to bonding

"The intensive skin-to-skin contact slows down the heart rate and breathing of the mother and child, allowing them to achieve mental calmness. It has also been scientifically proven that premature babies require less intensive care thanks to the intensive skin-to-skin contact," says Dr Cyril Lüdin, paediatrician and specialist consultant for Emotional First Aid (EEH). A nice side effect of bonding is a reduced sensation of pain - and the intensive skin contact has a very positive effect on breastfeeding.

Are you interested in giving birth at Bethesda Hospital?

The birth of your child is an extraordinary moment in your life. One for which only the best environment is good enough: first-class medical care, experienced midwives, dedicated nursing staff and a service that leaves nothing to be desired.

Find out more about giving birth at Bethesda Hospital and attend one of our information evenings for parents-to-be.